The Space Exploration Laboratory (SpaceLab) conducts mission-oriented planetary science research focusing on Mars, the Moon, and asteroids to address fundamental questions about planetary habitability and resource utilization. We are based at New York University Abu Dhabi’s Center for Astrophysics and Space Science (CASS). Our research spans Mars atmospheric dynamics, surface processes, and subsurface radiation environments, lunar surface processes and in-situ construction, carbonaceous asteroids preserving early Solar System organics, and UAE desert analog sites serving as planetary field laboratories.     We are a part of the mission teams on the Emirates Mars Mission, Rashid-2 lunar rover, and Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt. Current research combines laboratory experiments under simulated planetary conditions (SPEAR thermal-vacuum chamber), analysis of Mars atmospheric data from Hope probe’s infrared spectrometer and ultraviolet auroral observations, spectroscopic characterization of meteorites for asteroid mission ground truth, Monte Carlo simulations of radiation transport through planetary regolith, and field campaigns identifying Mars and lunar analog sites in UAE deserts and mountains. Over AED 5 million in external research grants, funding from the NYUAD Research Institute and the Kawader program support ongoing mission contributions and student training in planetary science and mission engineering. Our group has delivered flight-qualified experiments for the Rashid-2 rover, published interpretable machine learning methods reducing mission data processing costs by 80%, and created the Emirates Lunar Simulant now used for lunar surface science, rover testing and ISRU development. Our Focus Areas: •Mars Exploration: We lead pioneering research with data from the Emirates Mars Mission (Hope probe) to study Mars’ atmosphere, climate, and surface processes. Our work is vital to understanding the planet’s potential to support life and preparing for future human exploration. We work with data from NASA’s Curiosity and Perseverance rovers to understand the behavior of organics in Martian conditions.  •Lunar and Asteroid Science: We are involved in several missions to explore the Moon and asteroid belt, including the UAE Space Agency’s Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt (EMA) and MBRSC’s lunar rover, currently in development. These efforts aim to unlock the secrets of our solar system’s formation and resource potential. •Space Technology and Human Exploration: Our lab is committed to developing technologies for sustainable space exploration, including in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) and strategies to protect astronauts from the harsh space environment. We also focus on mitigating the effects of space radiation on long-duration missions, ensuring astronauts’ safety as they venture further into space. •Planetary Analog Missions: By conducting analog missions in Earth environments that mimic Mars or lunar conditions, we simulate the challenges of planetary exploration. These missions help us refine technologies, improve operational efficiency, and prepare astronauts for the rigors of space. Join Us in Exploring the Cosmos At Space Lab, we are training the next generation of explorers and scientists. Whether you are a student, researcher, or space enthusiast, we invite you to learn more about our projects, collaborate with us, and be part of the future of space exploration.